Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.

ACTS 9:36KJV
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Acts 9:36 (KJV)

What does Acts 9:36 mean?

Acts 9:36 introduces a woman named Tabitha, also called Dorcas, who lived in Joppa and was known for her acts of kindness and generosity. The verse highlights that she was a disciple who was devoted to doing good works and helping those in need.

This verse is part of a narrative in the book of Acts, written by Luke, describing the early Christian community. Tabitha stands out as a respected follower of Jesus, known for her charitable actions (“almsdeeds”) and her reputation for serving others. Mentioning both her Aramaic name (Tabitha) and its Greek translation (Dorcas) shows her importance in a diverse community.

The Greek behind Acts 9:36

  • μαθητρια (mathētria, G3102): The word for “disciple” here is the feminine form, showing that Tabitha was recognized as a committed female follower of Jesus, which was notable in that cultural setting.
  • ἐλεημοσύναις (eleēmosynais, G1654): This word for “almsdeeds” means acts of charity or giving to the poor, emphasizing that her good works were practical help for those in need.
  • πλήρης (plērēs, G4134): The word “full” suggests that Tabitha’s life was characterized by these good works, not just occasional acts but a consistent pattern of generosity.

Why Acts 9:36 matters

  • Acts 9:36 highlights that women played significant and active roles in the early church, being recognized as disciples and leaders in doing good.
  • The verse sets the stage for the miracle that follows, showing why Tabitha’s life and death had such a strong impact on her community.
  • By mentioning both her Aramaic and Greek names, the verse shows the multicultural nature of the early Christian movement and the wide respect Tabitha held among different groups.

Where else these words appear

“Tabitha” Greek G5000 · used in 2 verses

  • Acts 9:40 But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up.

“Dorcas” Greek G1393 · used in 2 verses

  • Acts 9:39 Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them.

“interpretation” Greek G1329 · used in 6 verses

  • Luke 24:27 And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.
  • 1 Corinthians 12:30 Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?
  • 1 Corinthians 14:13 Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret.

“Joppa” Greek G2445 · used in 10 verses

  • Acts 9:38 And forasmuch as Lydda was nigh to Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring him that he would not delay to come to them.
  • Acts 10:5 And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is Peter:
  • Acts 10:32 Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter; he is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner by the sea side: who, when he cometh, shall speak unto thee.